What is the iliotibial band function?

What is the iliotibial band function?

The iliotibial tract, also known as the iliotibial band, is a thick strip of connective tissue connecting several muscles in the lateral thigh. It plays an important role in the movement of the thigh by connecting hip muscles to the tibia of the lower leg.

What is a iliotibial band anatomy?

The iliotibial band (ITB) or tract is a lateral thickening of the fascia lata in the thigh. Proximally it splits into superficial and deep layers, enclosing tensor fasciae latae and anchoring this muscle to the iliac crest (Standring, 2004). It also receives most of the tendon of gluteus maximus.

What does the iliotibial band do and where is it located?

Your iliotibial band is a strong, thick band of tissue that runs down the outside of your thigh. It extends all the way from your hip bones to the top of your shinbone. When you bend and extend your leg, this band moves over the outer lower edge of your thighbone.

What nerve runs through IT band?

Analogous to the arterial blood supply, the ITB shares the innervation of the TFL and gluteus maximus via the superior gluteal nerve (SGN) and inferior gluteal nerve (IGN), respectively.

How do I stretch my iliotibial tract?

To stretch your ITB:

1. Stand near a wall or a piece of sturdy exercise equipment for support.
2. Cross your left leg over your right leg at the ankle.
3. Extend your left arm overhead, reaching toward your right side. You’ll feel a stretch along your left hip.
4. Hold for about 30 seconds.
5. Switch sides and repeat.

What Causes iliotibial band syndrome?

It’s an injury often caused by activities where you bend your knee repeatedly, like running, cycling, hiking, and walking long distances. Your IT band is a thick bunch of fibers that runs from the outside of your hips to the outside of your thigh and knee down to the top of your shinbone.

Why is my iliotibial band so tight?

Causes of IT band syndrome. ITBS is caused by excessive friction from the IT band being overly tight and rubbing against bone. It’s primarily an overuse injury from repetitive movements. ITBS causes friction, irritation, and pain when moving the knee.